June 7, 2023

Dear Presbytery Family, We greet you with joy and peace today. This edition of Staying Connected provides an important update from PC(USA) and other updates from around the presbytery.

News From PC(USA)

Liftoff for the New Church Leadership Connection For all call seekers and all churches in the search process, please take a look at this important article about changes to the Church Leadership Connection (CLC), our Presbyterian call system. CLC specializes in assisting pastors, committees on ministry, committees on preparation for ministry, executive presbyters, stated clerks, pastor nominating committees and clerks of session. The new CLC includes a task-based interphase that allows calling organizations more flexibility carrying out steps involved in hiring a pastor; automated information sharing between call seekers and organizations; expedited application submission and approval; easy withdrawal from consideration by candidates; and easy notification of decisions by calling organizations. The new system also has an improved look and user experience, including a dashboard with to-do tasks and notifications from CLC staff members.

Presbyterian Women

Presbyterian Women Summer Gathering Save the Date for the Annual Presbyterian Women Summer Gathering and 2023-2024 Bible Study Kick-Off. The event will be held on August 26, at Montgomery center, from 9:15 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The Bible Study will be lead by Rev. Dana Riley and Emily Heeg. View the flyer here, and share it with your congregation.

Columbia Theological Seminary Offers PW Study Intro Columbia Theological Seminary's Center for Lifelong Learning invites you to explore Sacred Encounter: The Power and Presence of Jesus Christ in Luke-Acts, the PW/Horizons 2023-2024 Bible Study, during its annual leader seminar August 7 through 9, on the seminary campus. This orientation to the new PW Bible study prepares leaders to facilitate its nine lessons. Register here.

News From Montgomery Center

Upcoming Events at Montgomery Center June 16-18 – Family Camp June 16 through July 28 – Summer Camp September 21-22 – FISH 2.0: Ministry Workers Retreat

Now Hiring Montgomery Center is seeking an experienced Sous Chef to complement our kitchen staff team. Our culinary department prides itself on healthy and nutritious food for summer camp, year-round groups and catering opportunities. This position supports the mission of Montgomery Center by providing quality food with Christian hospitality. Reliability and flexibility are are a must with an interest and willingness to learn and grow in the culinary arts. Must pass a Level II background check. To apply, submit your resume and cover letter via email to Rebekah Rodgers, Executive Director for Montgomery Center.

News From Around The Presbytery

Medicare Information Event Palms Presbyterian Church will host a Medicare Information Event on June 15, at 10:00 a.m. This informational event will include: getting started with Medicare, Medicare hospitals and doctors, choosing the best prescription plan and more. Refreshments will be served.

Many Positions Available In Our Presbytery Check out the many ministry opportunities throughout our presbytery here.

We'd love to see unique ministries, activities and events that your congregation does this summer. Send your photos to [email protected].

Conferences and Learning Opportunities

Apply to Join the Mosaic of Peace Conference in Israel/Palestine in 2024 You are invited to join the Presbyterian Peacemaking Program’s conference to the Holy Land in Israel/Palestine March 4 through 15, 2024. During this conference, you will engage with Christian, Muslim and Jewish leaders; walk in the footsteps of the Prince of Peace and encounter contemporary Palestinians and Israelis; and connect with global and local partners to take meaningful action for a just and lasting peace in the region. Applications are due by Oct. 20, 2023. Browse the PC(USA) webpage for detailed information and to submit an application.

Key Events June 16-18 – Family Camp at Montgomery Center June 16 – Summer Camp begins at Montgomery Center June 18 – Father's Day June 19 – Juneteenth June 23-25 – School of the Laity July 4 – Independence Day July 28 – Summer Camp ends at Montgomery Center August 26 – Presbyterian Women Summer Gathering at Montgomery Center September 21-22 – FISH 2.0: Ministry Workers Retreat at Montgomery Center October 3 – Fall Stated Presbytery Meeting at St. Giles Presbyterian Church

Share Your Events We would be happy to publish your event in the coming weeks! Email [email protected] with the dates and details.

Blessings, Susan Rose, Moderator of the Presbytery Charlie Evans, Stated Clerk

Previous Staying Connected emails are available on our website. Staying Connected Archives